Cinnamon 6.4 is here and brings with it a lot of interesting new features that promise to improve the user experience. This graphical environment, widely recognized for its balance between simplicity and functionality, will be the central pillar in the next version of Linux Mint 22.1, which is scheduled for release in late December 2024, coinciding with the Christmas holidays. But not only those who use Linux Mint will be able to enjoy these improvements, as it will also be available for other GNU/Linux distributions in their stable repositories.
Among the main visual improvements, Cinnamon 6.4 introduces a new default theme with a darker and more contrasting design. This change includes rounded elements, redesigned dialog boxes and colored buttons in certain menus, adding a modern touch to the whole. In addition, the Displaying Applets and Panels, with adjustments such as a space between the two, thus improving desktop organization.
Visual improvements and stylistic adjustments in Cinnamon 6.4
The theme is not only limited to general aesthetic changes, but also incorporates Specific modifications to key elementsFor example, the styles of the calendar applet and the power menu to align with the new dark background. Similarly, the notification buttons now feature reduced horizontal padding, further optimizing space and making them more intuitive.
Other notable tweaks include a Renewal of media buttons and OSDs of workspaces, ensuring a more fluid and modern experience. New features have also been added Improved animations and smoother transitions, contributing to a more pleasant environment for the user.
Practical features: Night light and accessibility
One of the most important additions of this version is the New Night Light feature, integrated into the display settings. This mode is designed to reduce eye fatigue by changing the screen tone to a warmer one at night, ideal for those who work late into the day in front of a computer.
In terms of accessibility, Cinnamon 6.4 has taken a step forward by Improve support for HiDPI displays, making icons and graphics look sharper on devices with higher resolutions. Battery labels and icons have also been updated, along with the implementation of a new setting for power profiles. The latter allows system performance to be adjusted based on the needs of the user. user needs, making energy consumption more efficient.
More intuitive interaction in Cinnamon 6.4
Another change that doesn’t go unnoticed is the inclusion of a “Force Quit” dialog, which has been completely rewritten to ensure that users can exit frozen apps without any hassle. The main menu has also been updated to rename key options, such as changing “Exit” to “Shut Down,” in order to clarify their function.
La Interaction with applets and menus has also improved significantly.For example, the grouped windows list now includes an option to show only the windows open on the current monitor. Additionally, volume changes play a sound while the slider is dragged, offering feedback immediately to the user.
Notifications and additional modules settings
El Notification handling has been optimized, even allowing them to be received in full screen mode, ensuring that they will not go unnoticed. Support has also been added for sound playback when the volume is increased and better support for new image formats, including JXL (JPEG-XL).
As for additional functionality, support for the NetworkManager applet during the down session is a welcome addition for those who experience occasional network issues. For those who value customization, the New options for managing notification statuses open the doors to an experience more focused on individual preferences.
Cinnamon continues to evolve with each update, and version 6.4 is no exception. With a combination of visual enhancements, new features and adjustments that simplify user interaction, this update promises to be an essential complement for those who value the efficiency and design in your work environment.
Its source code is available on GitHub. Its arrival in the different distributions will depend on the philosophy of each one, but it should arrive in Linux Mint at the end of 2024 or beginning of 2025.